Community Grants Program
Vermont Foodbank offers grants to network and program partner organizations in support of our mission: To gather and share quality food and nurture partnerships so that no one in Vermont will go hungry.
Grant funds are available through various programs at different times of the year. Each grant opportunity supports different activities and purchases.
Explore the sections below to learn more about each grant opportunity. If available, some grant opportunities will have downloadable application forms and instructions. Starting in 2025, we are shifting away from the Competitive Capacity Fund and introducing two new, more focused funding opportunities. Both of these opportunities are designed to provide not only financial support but also more learning and technical assistance for long-term growth and resilience throughout the Network.
Community Conversations Project
This opportunity supports Network and Program Partners in engaging their community members through a series of conversations to improve programs and services. Selected partners will receive $10,000 in funding, including $3,000 for hosting and compensating community members and $7,000 to implement recommendations. Vermont Foodbank will be available to provide ongoing technical assistance and coaching throughout the process. Applications open March 28, 2025 and are due May 9, 2025. Apply using our online application.
Download more information about the Community Conversations project.
Catalyst Cohort
The Catalyst Cohort is a peer-learning program designed to help Network Partners strengthen organizational resilience. Selected participants will engage in organizational self-assessments, monthly learning sessions, and a final in-person gathering, while receiving $25,000 to implement strategies that increase their organization’s resilience. The application window runs from mid-April through June 2nd and monthly cohort gatherings are expected to start in August 2025.
The first step in engaging with the Catalyst Cohort is completing a brief organizational self-assessment. If the assessment determines a strong fit for this year’s focus, you will receive an email with the full application. Read more about the Catalyst Cohort.
Vermonters Feeding Vermonters Mini Grants
Through Vermonters Feeding Vermonters Mini Grants, Vermont Foodbank network and community partners are awarded grant funding to purchase fresh Vermont-grown produce, meat, dairy, and eggs directly from local farmers.
VT Fresh Mini Grants
Through VT Fresh Mini Grants, Vermont Foodbank network and community partners are awarded grant funding aimed to increase access to, and the availability and consumption of, fruits and vegetables.
Thanks so much for your generous grant. A good tractor with a rototiller will mean more tilled land and more vegetables for needy families. This year we had a bigger garden and gave out more vegetables than any other year so far.”
~ White Pine Association, community partner
